Tag Archives: teeth whitening

When it comes to teeth whitening, there are two main types of dental stains that discolor teeth and cause cosmetic dental problems for patients. Extrinsic stains are those caused by food and drink or smoking. These stains reside on the outside of the tooth and stain the enamel. Extrinsic stains can often be removed with a thorough dental cleaning or professional teeth whitening.
Intrinsic stains are stains which are embedded within the tooth structure itself. One of the most common intrinsic dental stains occurs with the use of a prescription antibiotic called tetracycline. From the 1950’s to the 1980’s, the antibiotic tetracycline was commonly used in children for anything from an ear infection to acne treatment. The problem with tetracycline is that in young children, from prenatal through about age 8, the tetracycline became calcified within the structure of developing teeth, resulting in tooth staining from within the tooth itself.
Although harmless, tetracycline staining of the teeth is often severe and extremely unattractive. Because the stains cannot be removed with cleaning or dental bleaching, eliminating the stains is often not possible. Tooth discoloration from tetracycline staining is often dark gray or brown. It usually covers the tooth entirely or occurs in a linear pattern on the tooth structure. The most often recommended treatment for tetracycline staining on teeth is to cover the stains with cosmetic dental veneers or dental crowns.
Adults are not at risk for developing tetracycline staining on their teeth, because the staining only occurs during tooth development. Tetracycline is still commonly used today, although it is no longer prescribed for children under 8 years old or pregnant women.

Dental stains from antibiotics can be corrected with cosmetic dentistry. If you have dental discoloration caused by antibiotics or other factors, talk to your dentist about possible treatment options.
Only your dentist can determine whether your tooth discoloration can be corrected with professional teeth whitening or cosmetic dentistry. Contact Dr. Ban today to schedule a consultation and find out the best way to correct tooth discoloration and regain a beautiful bright smile today!

A bright, white, healthy smile is something people notice about you right away. Whitening dental products are some of the most popular beauty products on the market. In order to get the whitest, brightest smile, safely, we recommend professional teeth whitening. In order to keep teeth their whitest between professional treatments, you might want to avoid these top 5 foods that stain your teeth.
1. Coffee and Tea
Coffee and tea leave behind a dark residue that can stain your teeth brown or yellow. Avoiding these beverages can help prevent staining. If you do not want to give up your morning coffee, consider brushing and flossing well after you get your caffeine kick for the day.
2. Red and White Wine
One of the worst offenders when it comes to tooth discoloration is red wine. The deep pigments can give your teeth a darkened or even bluish hue. Did you know that even white wine can promote staining on your teeth? Drinking white wine followed by foods or beverages that are known to cause staining causes teeth to stain more deeply.
3. Sodas and Sports Drinks
The high sugar and acid content in these beverages can not only damage your teeth, but they can promote discoloration and stains. Your body and your teeth will thank you for switching to water instead.
4. Berries
Dark red, blue and purple berries are great for your health, but they can stain your teeth just like wine. If you include deeply pigmented berries as a part of your regular diet, be sure to brush and floss after enjoying them in order to help prevent staining.
5. Sauces and Seasonings
Tomato sauce, soy sauce, and other condiments with deep pigment can stain your teeth. Acidic sauces can actually weaken tooth enamel, making it more porous and more likely to absorb stains.To prevent stains from foods and beverages, make sure to follow these tips:
• Enjoy stain causing foods in moderation
• Brush and floss after consuming stain promoting foods and drinks
• Use a straw and swallow promptly
• Rinse well with water after eating or drinking
• Get your teeth professionally cleaned at least every six months
• Professionally whiten teeth to get them bright and white. Touch up your treatments with an at-home whitening kit available from your dentist.

To schedule a professional teeth cleaning and in-office dramatic dental whitening at Park Saratoga Dental, contact us today.